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The night sky

February 11

This is a busy night with three things to look out for.

First of all, you will be able to see the full snow moon or full hunger moon during the night. This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the full snow moon because the heaviest snows usually fell during this time of the year. Since hunting is difficult at this time of the year, this moon has also been known by some tribes as the full hunger moon.

Secondly, there will be a penumbral lunar eclipse which means that the moon will pass through the outer edge of the earth's shadow.

Finally, comet 45P/HMP, the "New Year’s comet" will reach its closest point to earth. You should be able to see it with the naked eye so no need for a telescope.

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Supermoon and Geminids shower

February 26

There will be an annual solar eclipse but unfortunately it will only be visible from the southern hemisphere. However, there should be plenty of live video available so all is not lost! It’s not a total eclipse as the moon is too far away to completely cover the sun which results in a ring of light around the darkened moon.

This is also the night of the new moon which is the best time of the month to observe faint objects such as galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere with them.